¶1. (C) The verdict in the case of four U.S. Marines accused
of involvement in the alleged rape of a Filipina is expected
on the afternoon of Monday, December 4. The DCM will call
State Operations Center as soon as a verdict is rendered, and
again after the Embassy Working Group, together with military
representatives, has met following the verdict to confirm
which Marines may have been acquitted and thus will depart
the Philippines.

¶2. (C) The Embassy’s Working Group, with input from
representatives of the III Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF),
has finalized post-verdict plans to ensure the safety of the
four accused Marines. Makati Regional Trial Court Security
officers told Embassy RSO that the presiding Judge, Benjamin
Pozon, will permit cameras into the courtroom to carry the
verdict on live television. Judge Pozon will also open
attendance for Monday’s verdict to all “interested” parties,
including press and NGO representatives. RSO is assisting
with screening procedures at the court. Large crowds,
including protesters, are expected outside the courthouse,
and may also form near the Embassy.

¶3. (C) Officials from the office of the Makati Regional Trial
Court Security Officer-in-Charge and the Makati City police
have agreed to Embassy requests for additional security
personnel on December 4 to ensure the safety of the Marines
and a secure, timely exit from the courthouse. At least 100
uniformed police will be present to assist.

¶4. (C) Immediately following the judge’s verdict, RSO will
escort all four of the Marines to the Embassy. Any Marines
acquitted will then be transported via a U.S. military
aircraft directly to Okinawa. (The aircraft is due to arrive
Sunday, December 3.) Embassy facilitators will pre-position
at the airport to assist any acquitted Marines’ departure
from the Philippines. Any Marines found guilty will remain
in Embassy custody, pending their planned appeals.